Carter continues, "Now Mr. Gilligan has concluded a deal that will bring another series he created to the more lucrative side of the business, broadcast TV," specifically CBS. Like "Breaking Bad," the show will come from Sony Pictures Television.

The story adds, "The show, a police drama called ‘Battle Creek,’ comes with an added layer of elite television pedigree. Based on Mr. Gilligan’s script, which he originally wrote for CBS 10 years ago, before he created ‘Breaking Bad,’ the show’s production will be led by David Shore, another celebrated television producer, who created and produced the longtime Fox hit drama ‘House.’"

The story explains, "CBS has promised to produce 13 episodes and put them all on the air. Most show deals begin with a script payment, and the next stage is limited to the making of a pilot. In this case, CBS has committed to paying for all 13 episodes before they are even produced.

"Neither Sony nor CBS would reveal the specific financial terms of the deal, though Zack Van Amburg, the president of programming for Sony, said CBS would pay “a premium license fee.” Based on the typical costs of a pilot and an additional 12 episodes for an expensive, hourlong drama with top-tier producers attached, it is probably worth $35 million to $45 million."

We urge you to click on the link above in the first paragraph and read all of Carter’s story, including how "cheap wine" played its part in the consummation of this deal.

One Comment

I think Breaking Bad is the best show ever on TV…but when I see CBS is doing this show I’m prepared to think it will suck. I no longer trust network tv. The shows are always watered down and dumbed down.